On-Site Education

In addition to tabling at local fairs and festivals, where we present the fullest possible history of the site beneath our feet, Lost in New Haven also maintains a site of national significance at 157, Water Street. This is where Benedict Arnold’s house used to be (and then Noah Webster’s). Here, Lost in New Haven will build a permanent, public exhibit to highlight the site’s historical significance. This will occur after all research and excavation efforts conclude.

Benedict Arnold, infamous Revolutionary War traitor, lived on Water Street.

By cross-referencing colonial-era maps, 19th century insurance maps, and modern satellite imagery, Lost in New Haven hypothesized the exact location of Benedict Arnold’s old residence. The owner of the lot donated the land to Lost in New Haven to conduct an excavation. With ground-penetrating radar provided by the State Archeology Department, the existence of Arnold’s colonial foundation was confirmed. Over centuries of development, the Benedict Arnold house site only saw pour-over concrete foundation—no digs. Arnold’s colonial home foundation, privy pits, and perhaps even his rumored smuggling tunnels, remain intact underground.